Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'spare time' is expressed through words and phrases that emphasize free time, leisure, or time not occupied by work or obligations. The most common and versatile term is 暇 (ひま), but other expressions like 余暇 (よか) and 空き時間 (あきじかん) are used in specific contexts. This guide covers the main ways to talk about having or using spare time, from casual conversation to formal writing.
To talk about having free time or being free in everyday conversation.
The most common and versatile word for 'free time' or 'being free'. Can be used as a noun or na-adjective. Often used in casual settings.
暇な時に映画を見ます。
I watch movies in my spare time.
今日は暇ですか？
Are you free today?
Literally 'to have time'. A natural way to say you have spare time without using the word 暇. More neutral and can be used in both casual and polite contexts.
時間があったら、手伝ってください。
If you have spare time, please help me.
Literally 'one's hands become empty'. Used when someone becomes free from a task or work, implying they now have spare time.
手が空いたら、これをお願いします。
When you have a spare moment, please do this.
Refers to 'killing time' or doing something to pass spare time. Often used when you have unexpected free time and need to fill it.
暇つぶしにゲームをした。
I played games to kill time.
To refer to spare time in a more formal or written context, often emphasizing leisure or recreational activities.
A formal term for 'leisure time' or 'spare time'. Commonly used in writing, surveys, or official contexts. Not typically used in casual conversation.
余暇の過ごし方についてアンケートを行いました。
We conducted a survey about how people spend their leisure time.
Loanword from English 'leisure'. Used for leisure activities, often in the context of travel, hobbies, or entertainment. More specific than 余暇.
To refer to a specific block of free time in one's schedule, like an opening between appointments.
Literally 'empty time'. Refers to a specific time slot that is free, such as between meetings or classes. More concrete than 暇.
空き時間に電話してください。
Please call me during your free time.
Refers to small pockets of spare time, like a few minutes between tasks. Often used in productivity contexts.
The English word 'spare' does not directly translate to a single Japanese adjective. Do not try to literally translate 'spare time' as スペアの時間 or similar. Use the expressions in this guide instead.
暇 is casual and commonly used in daily conversation. 余暇 is formal and appears in writing, surveys, or official contexts. Using 余暇 in casual speech can sound stiff.
暇な時に遊びに来てね。
Come hang out when you're free. (casual)
余暇活動の充実が求められる。
Enhancement of leisure activities is required. (formal)
Instead of 暇ですか, which can sound too direct or imply the person has nothing to do, use お時間ありますか (Do you have time?) or ご都合はいかがですか (How is your convenience?) in polite situations.
I enjoy leisure activities on weekends.
隙間時間を有効活用する。
Make effective use of spare moments.